Pod prison blues

A surprising turn of events...

"Gorgeous home on 20 acres of forest 10 minutes from beautiful Almonte and 35 minutes from downtown Ottawa. Two bedrooms, large open and bright living area and expansive library. Screened in front porch to enjoy summer evenings without pesky mosquitoes. Beautiful trails around the home with a labrynth for meditation or peaceful introspection. Perfect for hiking with your dog(s). Pets are welcome. We are helping our amazing landlord to find the perfect tenants. This is a house of peace so preference is given to vegetarians, animal and wildlife lovers. No hunting or violence towards animals will be permitted. Very good neighbours. Deer, wild turkeys, a plethora of bird species, wild hares - this is a peaceful oasis for wildlife. Appliances include fridge, stove, dishwasher, washer and dryer. Two car garage. High speed internet has been set up and contract can easily be transferred to next tenant. No smoking. Available July 1st"

Well, there's no easy way to say this, so here it goes: we found another Shack only with high speed internet and running water. We'll be moving there in July and - I can't believe I'm writing this - probably selling Santa Paz. Stunned silence. I feel like I'm breaking up with a really nice guy: "It's not you, it's me...it just wouldn't have worked out in the long run...I hope we can stay friends.... no, really, I love your lack of utilities.....I'll never forget all the good times...." casting eyes downward, "yes, there is someplace else.....yes, younger...."

It all started with me casually browsing Craigslist house rental listings looking at potential city rentals. When I saw the ad, in addition to feeling sufficiently tree huggerish to qualify for residency, the possibility of starting a full-time reasonable life immediately, rather than at some vague future date struck me between the eyes. We went out to see it the next day and decided it met most of our requirements for living well not just on weekends but all the time, right now.

What does this new development mean, you ask? It means my Freedom 42 plans get put into action sooner rather than later, L starts looking for a border collie that needs a home, and M does research into potential fleece bearing pets.

And we'll sadly put Santa Paz up for adoption. Unfortunately, a reasonable life just does not include driving long distances just to visit. If anyone knows someone who might be interested in owning and caring for an 1830's log cabin on 50 acres of forest, marsh, and fields in eastern Ontario please let me know by email at fransb at sympatico dot ca or phone.